News on Lambeth Safer Streets

For International Women’s Day this year, Lambeth’s Safer Communities team hosted a celebratory community event at Evolve Conference Centre in Stockwell. 

Violence Against Women and Girls continues to be both a cause and consequence of gender inequality globally. In recognition of this, the event reflected the UN women theme for International Women’s Day 2024 ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ to showcase local and national organizations working to end Violence Against Women and Girls and promote women’s rights. 

Over 80 stakeholders from across Lambeth including residents and agencies supporting women locally joined to network, share ideas, and hear form inspirational speakers. 

A diverse range of stall holders shared goody-bags, resources and information with attendees. Stall holders included members of Lambeth’s newly formed Gender-Based Violence Expert by Experience panel who are setting up a Survivor Forum to engage with survivors across the borough. 

The event also heard from three passionate speakers who shared insightful presentations about the vital work or their organizations for women affected by Gender-Based Violence. Sonu Masania form Surviving Economic Abuse highlighted the impact of economic abuse and the support available. Kristin Thue, from the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse spoke to the crucial role of employers in disrupting abuse and supporting survivors. Abbey Darling from the Prison Radio Association shared moving audio clips from women in prison and reflected on the ways that radio can raise awareness, aid recovery and bring joy for women. The event was closed with a performance from Starlight, an inspiring spoken word poet. 

Thank you to everyone who was involved in making the event a success, including Luminary Bakery – a social enterprise supporting disadvantaged women – and Dough Bakehouse who made delicious cakes as well as Brixton Radio who provided audio equipment. 

Lambeth Council’s Safer Communities team coordinates efforts to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls across the borough - including commissioning the Gaia Centre which provides specialist support to residents affected by Gender-Based Violence. We are committed to working with our partners to ensure that Lambeth is a borough where everyone is safe. To find out more read our  Lambeth Made Safer Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy 2021-27. For advice and support visit our VAWG Webpages.